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Mediation

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Mediation

Many divorcing couples want to minimize antagonism and conflict and avoid unnecessary cost as they separate their lives from one another. If these goals are important to you, and you want the opportunity to tailor a solution that fits the circumstances of your unique family, divorce mediation may be the right process for you and your spouse.

Divorce mediation is a voluntary, confidential, flexible, and private process in which a neutral party, the mediator, facilitates negotiations between a wife and husband. The mediator explores the needs and goals of each person and suggests possible solutions that address those needs and goals. Often, the parties are able to come up with solutions during mediation that were not apparent to them outside the process.

Unlike a judge or arbitrator, the mediator cannot require either party to agree to a settlement. A settlement is reached only when both parties agree. If the

couple agrees on a resolution, the mediator will prepare a written summary of the agreement which will serve as the basis for a formal legal agreement prepared by attorneys representing the parties.

Because mediation is more efficient and streamlined than litigation, or even traditional negotiation, couples reach a solution more quickly and with considerably less expense. Mediation also allows participants to craft a resolution that is uniquely suited to their particular family. Numerous studies have shown that when people find solutions to their own problems, their agreements are longer lasting and provide greater flexibility than resolutions imposed by a court. For all of these reasons, more divorcing couples are choosing mediation and enjoying the benefits.

Julie Woodmansee is a trained mediator. Contact our office to find out if mediation is right for you and your family.